India, SriLanka and South Africa were to play a tri-series one day international matches in SriLanka. But the South Africans pulled out at the last minute stating security reasons. The South Africans had said that the security report of the independent security agency hired by International Cricket Council (ICC)- Oliver Group - was not satisfied with the security arrangements. But the Inspector General of Police, Colombo, Mr.Chandra Fernando in an interview to The Hindu, a national daily from India, has said that no one from Oliver Group has met him or spoken to him and that he finds the whole thing amusing. Mr. Fernando said that he had agreed to every security demand the South African team management made and assured them protection on par with what was being accorded to the heads of state. Inspite of all this the South Africans have withdrawn from the series, while the Indians and the SriLankans are gamely proceeding with the series with the first match slated for today.
We must certainly cheer both the SriLankans and the Indians for their show of mental strength. But then I have this nagging feeling inside me - is it really worth risking lives playing! If any thing untowardly happens - God forbid - it is not only the players who will suffer but also scores of innocent spectators.
Whether it is a cowardly act on the part of the South Africans or plain foolhardiness on the part of the Indians & SriLankans I wouldn't mind, as long as the players return safely. Let's pray for them!
Be Happy with what you have while working for what you want.
